SD brewers in Denver this week, but SD beers will stay home

While many San Diego brewers are in Denver, hoping to strike gold at this week's Great American Beer Festival, you can still find their winning brews close to home.

WEDNESDAY: Tom Ham’s Lighthouse begins its beer dinner series at 5:30 p.m. with a multi-course salute to Ballast Point. Not only will dishes be paired to BP beers, but the welcoming hors d'ouevre and concluding dessert will be matched to BP spirits -- the old Grove Gin and the Devil's Share Moon Shine. Tickets are $45 and must be reserved by calling the restaurant.

FRIDAY: Benchmark Brewing only opened in June, but it is competing in Denver. Do your own judging of the Benchmark lineup in the brewery's tasting room, 3 to 8 p.m., and watch the USA vs. Jamaica World Cup qualifier, starting at 3:30. Left Coast Links will be parked outside, peddling their sausages.

SATURDAY: To find West Bistro's fourth annual OktoberWest, just look for the tents -- or follow the sounds of music and frolic. Those tents will be open from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.; tickets are $40 at the entrance or $35 if you call the restaurant in advance. Oh, the beers? You'll find brews from St. Pauli Girl, Erdinger, Firestone Walker, New Belgium and Poway's own Lightning.